Erikson Theory Quiz: Multiple Choice Questions

Erikson characterized development as a series of psychosocial stages. He viewed development as a combination of psychological and social factors that influence an individual's growth and progression. These stages involve the individual's interactions with their social environment and the psychological challenges they face at each stage. Erikson believed that successful resolution of these psychosocial conflicts leads to healthy development and the acquisition of important life skills.

The psycho-social theory, developed by Erik Erikson, consists of eight stages that individuals go through across their lifespan. Each stage represents a specific conflict or challenge that individuals must resolve in order to develop a healthy personality and move on to the next stage. These stages include trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, initiative vs. guilt, industry vs. inferiority, identity vs. role confusion, intimacy vs. isolation, generativity vs. stagnation, and integrity vs. despair. 

Intimacy vs. Isolation occurs during young adulthood. This stage, as proposed by Erik Erikson, typically takes place between the ages of 19 and 40. During this period, individuals seek to form close and meaningful relationships with others, both romantically and socially. They strive to develop intimate connections and establish a sense of belonging and companionship. Failure to achieve intimacy may result in feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The psychosocial crisis that results in either a feeling of "self-will" or "giving-up" is autonomy vs. shame and doubt. During this stage of development, which occurs during early childhood, children are exploring their independence and developing a sense of self. If they are successful in their attempts to assert their autonomy, they will develop a sense of self-will. However, if they are met with criticism or over-control, they may develop feelings of shame and doubt, leading to a sense of giving up on asserting their independence.

During each psychosocial stage, people face conflicts that can serve as turning points in their development. These conflicts arise due to the challenges and demands of each stage, which require individuals to navigate and resolve various psychological and social dilemmas. These conflicts can involve issues such as identity, autonomy, intimacy, or generativity, and successfully resolving them leads to personal growth and development. Conflict is an essential element in the psychosocial stages as it prompts individuals to confront and overcome obstacles, ultimately shaping their personality and life trajectory.

Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development does not list "Honesty" as one of the life-stage virtues. His framework, which includes eight distinct stages, each presents a specific psychosocial dilemma that significantly influences personality and psychological growth. Each stage culminates in the development of a particular virtue, such as hope, will, purpose, competence, fidelity, love, care, and wisdom. "Honesty," although a valued trait in moral development, is not explicitly defined as a virtue within Erikson's theoretical stages.

During the school-age stage, children are exposed to various demands and challenges. This is a crucial period where their ability to cope with these demands is tested. Depending on their experiences and interactions, children can either develop a sense of competence or feelings of inferiority. This stage is characterized by the development of social skills, academic abilities, and self-esteem. It is a time when children begin to compare themselves with their peers and strive for success in various areas of life.

During middle adulthood, individuals often face the conflict of generativity vs. stagnation. Generativity refers to the desire to contribute to society and leave a legacy, whether it be through raising children, mentoring others, or making a meaningful impact in their career. Stagnation, on the other hand, refers to a sense of feeling unproductive and lacking purpose. This conflict arises as individuals reflect on their accomplishments and question whether they have made a meaningful difference in the world.

Erik Erikson does not have a Bachelor's degree. Despite lacking a formal degree in medicine or psychology, Erikson made significant contributions to the field of psychology. He studied child development at the Vienna Psychoanalytic Institute and received a diploma from the institute.

Erikson's theory of psychosocial development includes eight stages, each characterized by a different conflict that must be resolved. During adolescence, the primary conflict is "Identity vs. Role Confusion." This stage involves developing a personal identity and a sense of self. Successfully resolving this conflict leads to a strong sense of identity, while failure results in role confusion and uncertainty about one's place in society.